Caring for Parents and the Elderly according to the Principals of the Tipitaka

Abstract

This article aims to explore the principles and teachings found in the Tipitaka that recommend the care of parents and the elderly. The analysis focuses on important Suttas and dhamma principles, including the Sigalovada Sutta, Putta Sutta, 4 Sangahavatthu 4 Brahmaviharas and 7 Sappurisadhamma. The goal is to understand the Buddhist perspective on caring for and performing acts of merit towards parents and the elderly, and how these principles can be applied in modern society for the benefit of family institutions and the nation. The study found that in the Sigalovada Sutta; the Dhamma principles used in caring for parents and the elderly are those related to the front and right directions. In the Putta Sutta; the principles are the five duties of a child. In the 4 Sangahavatthu; Dana, Piyavaca, Atthacariya, Samanattata. In the Brahmaviharas; the four principles focus on peaceful and happy coexistence. Finally, in the Sappurisadhamma; the seven qualities of a good person are highlighted as essential virtues for caring for parents and the elderly.